we may commence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we may commence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in formal contexts to indicate that a group is ready to begin an activity or process. Example: "After reviewing all the necessary documents, we may commence the project as planned."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Inversely, we may commence a study of filter design based on constructing control sequences satisfying some desired filter property - our main goal.

EPJ Quantum Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

We assume that treatment may commence with the onset of symptoms and it can be administered for 2 days (the length of the WOP).

Plosone

Now that they have completed the necessary blood sacrifice of the day, the rituals may commence.

The Guardian - Music

"There may commence an unraveling of our national fabric," he wrote, in a Facebook post.

The New Yorker

I was expecting a tirade, but all she said was, "You may commence reading, Jeremy".

The New Yorker

New Jersey's highest court unanimously ruled Friday that same-sex marriage may commence in that state on Monday.

The New Yorker

the Attorney General may commence a civil action in any Federal court to enjoin such violation.

Cornell University

As of yet there is no word on when The Goonies 2 may commence filming.

Independent

You may commence cringing anew over the idea of a World Cup and an Olympics there.

The New York Times - Sports

By Richard Socarides October 18, 2013 New Jersey's highest court unanimously ruled Friday that same-sex marriage may commence in that state on Monday.

The New Yorker

After review of the application to cover the construction permit, the Commission will issue a letter notifying the applicant whether program test operations may commence.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we may commence" in formal settings when you want to indicate a readiness or permission to begin an activity, process, or event. It is particularly suitable for official communications, legal documents, and academic writing.

Common error

Avoid using "we may commence" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "we can start" or "let's begin" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we may commence" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing permission or possibility to begin an action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase, suitable for formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

30%

News & Media

30%

Science

40%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we may commence" is a grammatically sound and frequently used modal verb phrase that expresses permission or the possibility of starting something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is most appropriate in formal contexts such as academic, scientific, and professional communications. While simpler alternatives like "we can begin" are available for informal settings, "we may commence" serves as a clear and formal way to announce the readiness or authorization to initiate an action. Given its frequent appearance in authoritative sources like The New Yorker and The New York Times, mastering the use of "we may commence" can significantly enhance your formal writing and communication skills.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we can begin

Suggests a slightly less formal and more direct way of indicating the possibility of starting.

we might start

Indicates a possibility or suggestion of beginning, with a slightly tentative tone.

we are able to initiate

A more formal and emphatic way of expressing the capability to start something.

we are permitted to proceed

Emphasizes the permission or authorization to begin an action.

we have the go-ahead to launch

Implies that approval has been granted to start a specific project or initiative.

we are clear to get underway

Indicates that any obstacles have been removed and the start is imminent.

we are free to embark on

Suggests a sense of freedom and readiness to begin a new venture.

let us initiate

A more formal and directive way to propose starting something.

it's time to kick off

An informal way to announce the beginning of an event or activity.

we should get going

A less formal way to suggest starting an activity or journey.

FAQs

How can I use "we may commence" in a sentence?

You can use "we may commence" to indicate the start of a formal action. For example, "After the opening remarks, we may commence the meeting" or "Once all conditions are met, we may commence the project".

What are some alternatives to "we may commence"?

Alternatives include "we can begin", "we might start", or "we are able to initiate". The best choice depends on the desired level of formality and the specific context. See also: "we can begin", "we might start".

Is "we may commence" too formal for everyday conversation?

Yes, "we may commence" is generally considered too formal for everyday conversation. Simpler phrases like "we can start" or "let's begin" are more appropriate in informal settings.

When is it appropriate to use "we may commence" instead of "we will commence"?

"We may commence" suggests possibility or permission, while "we will commence" indicates a definite future action. Use "we may commence" when the start depends on certain conditions or approvals. Use "we will commence" when the start is certain and scheduled.